You may have heard that probiotics are good for you, but did you know that they can also increase estrogen?
It’s early days in terms of studies, but results so far seem promising and with all the evidence available regarding the benefits of probiotics it seems logical they will help increase estrogen levels by improving gut microbes.
Gut microbes regulate several aspects of human physiology, including intestinal permeability, nutritional absorption from food, and immunity, according to scientific studies. Recent research suggests that gut microorganisms serve an additional important role in the human body by controlling circulating estrogen levels.
How can probiotics benefit you?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are found in yogurt, fermented foods, and supplements. They have many health benefits, including aiding digestion and reducing inflammation.
Some studies have also shown that probiotics can increase estrogen levels.
For more information on the benefits of probiotics check out our in-depth article.
The link between probiotics and estrogen
The link between probiotics and estrogen is not fully understood, but there are several theories as to how the two are connected.
First, probiotics can help the body break down phytoestrogens, which are compounds found in plants that mimic estrogen in the body. Probiotic bacteria may also produce their own estrogens.
Finally, probiotics can increase the number of estrogen receptors in the gut.
It’s important to note that not all probiotics will increase estrogen levels. The type of bacteria present in a probiotic supplement or food will determine its effects on hormones. For example, Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a type of bacteria that have been shown to decrease estrogen levels.
Studies into the relationship
It’s true that probiotics can play a role in hormone balance. The connection between gut health and hormone balance is well-established. In fact, the majority of your body’s serotonin (a hormone that plays a role in mood and digestion) is produced in your gut.
Probiotics can increase levels of serotonin by increasing the number of good bacteria in your gut. Good bacteria help to break down food and absorb nutrients more efficiently.
However, there is no concrete evidence that probiotics can directly increase estrogen levels. Most of the studies that have been conducted on the subject have been done on animals, not humans.
And while some studies have found an indirect connection between probiotics and estrogen levels (i.e., increased levels of serotonin leading to increased estrogen production), more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Which strains are beneficial?
Some strains of probiotics, specifically Lactobacillus rhamnosus, have been shown to bind to estrogen receptors in the body. This means that they have the potential to influence the way that estrogen is metabolized and utilized by the body.
Additionally, L. rhamnosus has been shown to promote the growth of certain types of estrogen-dependent cancer cells.
However, it’s important to note that this strain of probiotic is not the only one that has been studied in relation to estrogen; other strains, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium animals, have also been shown to bind to estrogen receptors.
In conclusion
So, what does all of this mean? Well, it’s still unclear exactly how probiotics may influence estrogen levels in the body. It’s possible that they could increase levels of the hormone, but it’s also possible that they could decrease them.
More research is needed in order to determine the exact nature of the relationship between probiotics and estrogen. In the meantime, if you’re concerned about your estrogen levels, it’s best to speak with a doctor or other healthcare professional. They can help you to understand your risks and make sure that you’re taking steps to protect your health.
A quick reminder ..
Probiotics.tips aim to provide the most up-to-date information, help, and advice for YOU to make informed decisions. If you are unsure or uncertain and require more clarity, please reach out to us and we will gladly come back and advise you as best we can.
The best means to reach us is via email at info@probiotics.tips or fill out the form on our Contact Us page – click here.
Probiotics.tips
